Program to develop Colombo roads, intersections

by Ranil WIJAYAPALA

All main roads and intersections of the Colombo city are to be developed, at a cost of more than Rs. 200 million, in compliance with the Colombo city beautification program initiated by Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Special Commissioner of the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) Omar Kamil said.

He said the CMC has already completed the development of Gregory's Road and is in the process of completing Galle Road, from the Kollupitiya junction to the Bambalapitiya junction.

"We have completed the asphalting of this section of Galle Road. The completion of parking bays, foot-walks and pavements will be done within the next few weeks," Kamil said. The installation of pelican crossings, landscaping and lane marking will be carried out after the completion of the main construction work, he said.

Apart from these two projects, the CMC will also complete the improvement of the Bloemendhal Road which was in a dilapidated state for a long period.

He said the section of Dharmapala Mawatha, from Red Cross junction to Lipton Circus, will also be developed soon as this section is in a bad state.

"Under this road development program, we are giving priority to the improvement of foot-walks and pavements to ensure a hassle-free walk for pedestrians.

"The Defence Secretary is keen on developing foot-walks and pavements," Kamil said.

"Our intention is to improve all main roads and intersections within this year," Kamil said.